Feb 3
1. Discuss simple circuits homework. Look at some soldered resistors, hook up with a battery, measure voltage and current with meters.
2. AC vs DC current ; power and energy definitions.
3. Open discussion of your projects: what do you have in mind, and what are you going to order to do that? Review some of the links on the resources page with possibilities.
Mention breadboard arduino :
Discuss circuit board styles and types, links I sent in email and put on resources page
Wireless projects:
Jim's project progress
I'm starting with a Lego + Arduino project:
I have
- the arduino
- the legos, including motors and wires
- the motor shield
I'll probably use a "two tread tank" design, which is dirt simple: one motor per tread.
Once that's done, it'll be a platform to put some sensors on ... and do some software programming for antics.
I don't have a battery pack to run the motors; could scrounge from lego parts ... or buy one with a charger.
One AA NiMH rechargable is around 1V, and can hold around 2200 mAh (milli-Amp-hours). Packs of 8 can give me the 9V I need, with an hour or two of time running 1 amp. Here are some sources for this sort of battery pack and charger :
9.6V NiMH 2200 mAh , so about 2 hrs run time ; 7.8oz ; $20 ; (2 for $30)
http://www.batteryspace.com/customizenimhbattery96v2200mahwith218awgopenendwire.aspx
or http://www.batteryspace.com/nimhbattery96v2200mahbatteryforrccartoyofnikkoandradioshock.aspx
flatter ; 8oz ; for radioshack RC car ; 4" x 2.3" x 0.6"
charger ; $30 (2.5 hrs charge for above battery)
http://www.batteryspace.com/multi-currentuniversalsmartchargerfor96v-18vnimhbatterypackstamiyaplugullisted.aspx
or could use standard AA's in a bracket.
